Alternative tourism
The concept and practice of alternative tourism arose from a response to the impact of mass tourism and as an expression of rebellion and search for adventure.
What is the difference between mass tourism and alternative tourism?
These two types of tourism are very different from each other. Mass tourism is an organized movement of large numbers of people to specialized locations. Alternative tourism involves small groups of people or individuals traveling to places that are not popular tourist destinations.
What is really alternative tourism?
Alternative tourism is often being referred to as a form of travel that is more personal and authentic. It promotes interaction with the local people, communities, and the environment. Many people want to plan an unconventional type of vacation and visit places somewhat different than the usual tourist attractions.
There are many reasons why travelers are opting for this kind of adventurous recreation rather than a mainstream holiday. One is having the pleasure of creating individual experiences. Another is getting in touch with local culture and traditions. Exploring new exciting places not featured in typical travel guides is something they’re looking for as well. It’s a type of tourism that respects the values of local people and nature, favoring encounters, exchanges and building experiences
But what makes alternative tourism so unique and desirable?
There are three types of activities that you can experience that differ from the regular mass tourism:
Nature-based tourism
Often called ecotourism, it usually involves traveling and exploring natural areas while preserving the environmental ecosystem and improving the wellbeing of the local people.
Such activities include biking, hiking, horseback riding, rafting, diving, cave exploring, and other outdoor activities which are specific to the natural area.
Cultural tourism
This represents the ethnological and religious part of an alternative tourism. Travelers who want to have more unique experiences can explore the cultural heritage as well as the ethnic, rural and religious practices of those who live in the area.
Adventure tourism
This is a type of travel that involves activities for the more courageous and daring vacationers in exotic and unusual destinations. Many travelers find pleasure in activities that are potentially dangerous and risky.
The most desirable places for adventure traveling are mountainous regions, deserts, rainforests, jungles and deserted islands. It can also include challenging physical activities such as deep-sea diving, extreme rock climbing, safaris, zip-lining, sand-boarding, mountain biking and others.
This kind of tourism has often been represented by drifters, hippies, or adventurers; however, the demand for differentiated and individualized experiences has slowly spread. Generally, alternative tourism involves traveling with the minimum possible cost, coexisting with local people, using traditional local stores, and, occasionally, doing small amounts of craftwork.
The core idea of alternative tourism is that tourists have a satisfying experience and a genuine experience of nature, culture, people, or a combination of them.
Some advices to share with you
Tips
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Take your time, don't do anything in a hurry
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Enjoy the view
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Talk to the people
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Enjoy the meal
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Take some photos
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Do some activities with local people
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Make some friends if it is possible
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Note the places where you will love to return
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Be yourself not just a tourist.
Alternative activities
Be free to enjoy the nature
There are a few things that you can do when traveling that can guarantee a lot of fun, for exemple:
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you can go on a „free walking tour” in the city you are traveling, this means that the tour is free, and you can tip as much as you want to the guide.
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you can rent a bike and just admire the city
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you can go hiking
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you can ask for a map at the travel agency with all the tourist attractions and go on a relaxing stroll visiting them on your own
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you can make a picnic in a park and eat your lunch in the nature.
Accesible tourism
Find a way to enjoy the activities together with all your friends.
„Accessible tourism” is a term used for a kind of tourism that covers a full range of costumers, including people with disabilities. It has the intention to ensure that people can benefit from transportation, communication and other services and facilities at a low budget.
